Randolph, Vermont

Ray Edward Hartson, 83, died at his home Saturday June 24th surrounded by his family.

Ray was born in Marshfield, Vermont on May 20, 1934 the son of Delmar and Katherine (LaPan) Hartson.

Educated in East Montpelier, Ray enlisted in the United State Marine Corp. on August 11, 1951 and served with pride in Korea until August 10, 1954. Ray married Louise (Stevens) on July 2, 1955 and together they raised their children; Debra, Ray,and Roy. On August 14, 1996 Ray married Shirley (Broadwell) with whom he spent the last 21 years of his life and helping to raise Steve.

Ray began working as a truck driver for the Capital Candy Company and then delivering Milk for the Cabot Creamery and later the Corriveau Trucking. Eventually Ray began a long career in the Granite business first working for Williamson Polishing and then many years for Granite Importers. He spent his last years working for the Morse Sugar Farm.

Among Ray's many talents he was well known as an accomplished musician, playing in several bands, appearing on WSKI Radio, playing many instruments but mastering the steel guitar. It was fortunate for many that Ray also passed these talents on to both family and friends.

In addition to his musical interests, Ray enjoyed sugaring, boating, fishing, painting, making model ships and planes, doing puzzles, and watching NASCAR.

Ray is survived by his wife of 21 years Shirley (Broadwell) Hartson, his children; Debora (Tim) Blake, Ray "Beaver" (Alice) Hartson, Roy "Bad Horsey" (Dorothy) Hartson, and Steve (Brandi) Tracy, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, step grandchildren, and step great grandchildren, two sisters; Sylvia Stevens and Sandra Garand, nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents Ray is predeceased by his first wife Louise (Stevens) Hartson.

In memory of Ray's many years of service, including serving as Governor and receiving Moose of the year, Ray's family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Central Vermont Moose Lodge # 1391, 110 Business Center Road, Williamstown, VT 05679.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Monday July 3, 2017 at 1:00pm at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, Vermont. A celebration of Ray's life is being planned for a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock, Vermont. An on line guest book can be found at cabotfh.com